The Old Rugged Cross

(Public Domain)
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
the emblem of suffering and shame;
and I love that old cross where the dearest and best
for a world of lost sinners was slain.

[Refrain] So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
and exchange it some day for a crown.

O that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
has a wondrous attraction for me;
for the dear Lamb of God left his glory above
to bear it to dark Calvary.

In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
a wondrous beauty I see,
for ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
to pardon and sanctify me.

To that old rugged cross I will ever be true,
its shame and reproach gladly bear;
then he’ll call me some day to my home far away,
where his glory forever I’ll share.


This is a very well know hymn originally written by George Bannard in 1913.

As one enters the sanctuary at Emmanuel Community Church, up front is another beautiful rugged cross. When the church building was constructed in 2003-2004, much thought and meaning was given in constructing this cross. And many of our elders who have passed on before us had a integral part in erecting this cross. It is truly a beautiful representation of that cross on Calvary so many, many years ago.

Next time you have an opportunity to sit in the church and gaze up at the cross, may this little bit of history resonate in your heart.